EPA publishes final composite panel formaldehyde emissions standard

WASHINGTON - On December 12, the EPA published its final version of its Formaldehyde Emission Standards for Composite Wood Products in the Federal Register. Experts at the Composite Panel Association say no significant changes have been made from a pre‐publication draft issued July 27, 2016.

“EPA has set in place for the whole country the world’s most stringent standard for formaldehyde emissions from composite wood products,” said Jackson Morrill, president of the Composite Panel Association. “To be successful, EPA must now develop world‐class enforcement practices that ensure these standards are met by all composite wood products sold in this country, whether made here in the U.S. or abroad."

The American Home Furnishings Alliance, and the International Wood Products and the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Associations, plan a joint workshop, January 18-19, 2017, to navigate new EPA formaldehyde emissions standards. (No-formaldehyde PureBond Hardwood Plywood at right.)

“As the Trump administration takes over implementation of this regulation, we would stress that strong enforcement not only provides important health and environmental benefits to the public, but it also strengthens U.S. manufacturing by ensuring a level regulatory playing field and fair competition.

“A commitment to strong enforcement must go beyond simply checking paperwork – it will mean more dedicated resources and coordinated efforts across the Federal Government to verify compliance.

The regulation can ensure that all wood panel products meet the world’s most stringent standards for formaldehyde emissions. See what that means here.

“North American composite panel manufacturers that have made major investments over the last several years are already complying with the rule and should not be disadvantaged by non‐compliant products manufactured offshore. CPA and its members have been leaders in this effort for over 30 years, and we stand ready to help EPA in its work to make this regulation meaningful for U.S. consumers.”

A full breakdown of what the new regulation means for woodworkers can be found here.

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About the Author:

Karl D. Forth

Karl D. Forth is online editor for CCI Media. He also writes news and feature stories in FDMC Magazine, in addition to newsletters and custom publishing projects. He is also involved in event organization, and compiles the annual FDM 300 list of industry leaders. He can be reached at karl.forth@woodworkingnetwork.com.